Kyle Higa

Kyle Higa started in the restaurant biz working as a dishwasher at a small Mexican restaurant on Hawaii Island. He made his way to the front line and found he loved cooking. That’s when he decided to pursue the culinary arts. One of Higa’s career highlights was working under the direction of Chef Chai Chaowasaree, assisting him with in-flight catering for Hawaiian Airlines. Higa also had the opportunity to cook at the James Beard House with Chaowasaree and travel on his behalf to Japan and New York. Other positions include chef de tournant at the Kahala Hotel, Hilton Hawaiian Village and the Hyatt Regency Waikiki Beach Resort.

In his current role as sous chef and banquet che at Aulani, A Disney Resort & Spa, Higa oversees the daily operations of the main kitchen and cast cafeteria. The main kitchen operation includes all banquet functions ranging anywhere from 10 to 1,000 guests. In addition, the main kitchen is responsible for supporting other food and beverage outlets such as the ‘AMA‘AMA restaurant, Makahiki Buffet, and Quick Service restaurant locations.

Higa works closely with the sales team to create menus that cater to each event’s personality. Aulani has participated in such events such as the Hawai‘i Food & Wine Festival and LOTTE Golf Championships; and hosted events for large companies such as Lexus, Toyota, the National Association of Catering and Events and the Hawaii Food Industry Association just to name a few. Higa’s proficiency in the culinary arts has allowed the resort to expand offerings and attract guests from all over the world, looking for a touch of Disney magic.